When you install new brake pads on your vehicle, it is important to properly "run them in" before driving at high speeds or under heavy braking conditions. Running in the pads is the process of breaking in the pads to the rotors and ensuring that they work effectively and safely.
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Initial Gentle Braking: Start with some light and gentle braking at low speeds for 3-5 times. This is important to start the bedding-in process, which involves transferring a thin layer of brake pad material onto the disc rotor surface.
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Gradual Increase in Brake Pressure: After the initial gentle braking, gradually increase the brake pressure and the speed at which you are braking over another 3-5 stops. Avoid coming to a complete stop if possible, as this can cause uneven pad deposits.
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Perform a Series of Controlled Hard Braking: Next, perform a series of around 2-3 hard stops from a moderate speed (like 35-45 mph) down to about 5-10 mph. Again, try not to come to a complete stop.
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Gentle Braking: Do light and gentle braking at low speeds for 1-2 more times. This is important to round up the bedding-in process, which helps ensure the final contact surface of the brake pad and the rotor is as smooth as possible.
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Cool Down: After the series of hard stops, drive for a few miles at normal speed without using the brakes much. This helps to cool down the brakes and prevent overheating, which can damage the new pads.
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Avoid Heavy Braking Afterwards: For the first 100-200 miles, try to avoid heavy braking where possible. This allows the pads to fully bed in and ensures a smooth surface.
Breaking in new brake pads is important for several reasons:
- Improving braking performance: When new brake pads are installed, the surface of the pads and the rotors may not be perfectly smooth. During the running-in period, the pads will gradually wear down to match the contours of the rotors, resulting in better contact and improved braking performance.
- Reducing brake noise: New brake pads may produce a squealing or squeaking noise when they are first used. This noise is caused by a high-pitched vibration between the pads and rotors. As the pads wear in, the noise will decrease and eventually disappear.
- Avoiding uneven wear: Uneven wear can occur if the pads are not run in properly. This can lead to uneven braking performance, which can be dangerous. Running the pads in evenly distributes the wear across the entire pad, ensuring consistent and safe braking.
- Improving the longevity of the brake pads and rotors: Running-in the brake pads correctly, it will help to reduce wear and tear on the brake pads and rotors, which will help to extend their lifespan.
- Enhancing safety: Properly running in brake pads ensures that they will work effectively and safely when you need them most. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid excessive use of the brakes during the running-in period to ensure that your brakes will perform at their best when you need them.